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In our “Layout Guides” series you’ll find layout solutions for rooms of all shapes and sizes. Often the trickiest part of designing a space, finding the right layout for your room can be a challenge. We will feature a variety of rooms – from the square, to the narrow, to the just plain awkward – outfitted with two different layouts that work.

If you’ve ever lived in a studio apartment, you know that while space may be limited, your design possibilities are not. This week we tackle two layouts for a square-shaped studio with an open floor plan.

Explore the two studio apartment layout ideas below and steal a few ideas for your own studio apartment!

The space:A 450 square foot studio apartment with a corner kitchen and two walls of windows.

The Challenge:Designing a layout that included a desk, space for TV viewing, and dining area, all while maximizing the usability of the space to make it feel open and uncluttered.

Idea #1: The Open Layout

Layout idea #1 is all about creating flow inside our studio apartment, making the space feel open, airy, and uncluttered. This setup is great for those who like to entertain and have people over often.

Why It Works:

The furniture hugs the walls, maximizing open space to create a layout that emphasizes good flow.

The bistro table for two in the kitchen separates the dining area from the rest of the space. This is also a great way to combat a lack of counter space (a not uncommon problem in small spaces), as the table can double as a kitchen island.

The bench stands in for a coffee table, but can also double as extra seating when guests come over.

A triple threat, the bookcase provides extra storage, acts as a room divider, and gives privacy to the bed area.

This Is Great If You…

Love to entertain and host small and large gatherings in your space.

Live alone or don’t need a studio apartment layout that maximizes privacy.

Hate clutter – there’s nowhere to stash a mess in this layout.

Want to take advantage of a layout that maximizes extra space – for yoga, dancing, or any other activity that requires a little extra breathing room.

See the layout idea #1 in 360!

Idea #2: The Zoned Layout

By using furniture to section off – or “zone” – spaces, this studio apartment layout makes each distinct area feel like its own room. The best part is that the bed is totally tucked away in a cozy corner that feels secluded from the rest of the space.

Why It Works:

“Floating” the sofa in the middle of the room helps divide the space into distinct areas, like living/dining, bedroom and office.

Place the dining area by the windows to create a sunny breakfast nook vibe.

Tuck the bed away behind the desk area, to create a separate space with more privacy.

Plop the sofa directly across from the wall-mounted TV to make Netflix binges more convenient and comfortable.

This Is Great If You…

Want a studio that has distinct spaces for all your activities, rather than feeling like one open room.

Don’t need a lot of space to host people in your studio apartment.

Live with a partner and want a space where you can cohabitate with a little more privacy and space to do your own thing.